Who doesn't love a good dinner party? Socials are always fun, however, the prepping part isn't always as enjoyable. Don't worry, we've got help on the way—as someone who styles setups for a living, Czarina Ledesma of The Event Architects has seen and organized her share of cozy get-togethers and major parties. Here are some of her expert tips:

Look for affordable materials and DIY it.

“It doesn’t take a lot of money,” Czarina says. “A lot of these things you can do by yourself.” Try your hand at DIY projects and recycling things you already own instead of buying everything from the party store.

Make it interesting.

When it comes to themes, make sure yours is unique and different. “Have fun with the idea. Pick something you enjoy—that inspires you more.”

Have fun!

“Enjoy it! A lot of people get so stressed doing it,” she says. The whole idea of throwing a party is so that you and your guests can have a good time, so don’t stress over it.

Let it be.

Czarina's advice to all party-throwers: “Let go. Once the party starts, whatever happens, you can’t do anything about it anymore. Your friends go because they love you and not because of the set-up.”

This snippet is from the original article "Roaring 20s New Year's Even Party" in the December 2008 issue of Real Living Magazine. Download your digital copy of Real Living on the Real Living App. Log on to summitnewsstand.com.ph/real-living for more details.